There were 28 bids made to the England and Wales Cricket Board by August.

"Our objective is to play matches at Taunton, Bristol and other venues around the region," said Somerset chief executive Guy Lavender in a statement.

"We not only want to produce an outstanding team but also to use this as a vehicle to engage more participation for women and girls right across the region."

Lancashire's Kate Cross was part of the England squad that lost the Ashes this summer

Lancashire Cricket Board vice-chairman Bobby Cross added: "This is an unprecedented period in the development of the game in this country.

"We see WCSL as a fantastic opportunity to explore the potential for the next generation of young cricketers to push the boundaries and to give the national side a bigger pool of talented players challenging for places."

Hampshire's Ageas Bowl has also confirmed it is bidding to host a side in the inaugural Twenty20 event next season.

An announcement regarding the successful bids is expected by the end of January 2016.